Last week, we celebrated Deaf Awareness Week, providing the perfect opportunity to recognise and promote the incredible work of the Primary Resource Base for deaf children at Christopher Pickering Primary School.

There are currently 11 deaf pupils in the Resource Base, ranging from Year 1 to Year 6. The Base provides a total communication environment, where sign and spoken language are used simultaneously, supported by visuals, sign graphics and gesture to ensure full access to learning. In addition, there are a further 7 children with a hearing loss across the school who are supported by the IPaSS Peripatetic Service.

A typical day in the Resource Base varies depending on the pupils’ ages and individual needs. Most children attend their mainstream classes for registration, where they confidently sign and respond to the register. All pupils are currently taught English and reading by Qualified Teachers of the Deaf and specialist staff, with lessons focusing on developing communication, language and vocabulary. A small number of pupils access a broader curriculum, adapted to their needs, while others are flexibly integrated into mainstream classes with the support of Resource Base staff. Pupils particularly enjoy participating independently in PE and working collaboratively alongside their peers.

To support their wider development, pupils take part in weekly ‘Theory of Mind’ sessions, helping to build social understanding, alongside Deaf Studies lessons; these sessions develop communication skills while exploring topics such as cultural celebrations and key life skills. Each pupil also benefits from weekly 1:1 British Sign Language (BSL) sessions with the Deaf Instructor. A tailored challenge and reward system encourages pupils to do their best and fosters a love of reading, with rewards including special trips such as visits to the park or cinema. Staff also support pupils on school trips and activities to ensure full access to the wider school experience.

Deaf Awareness is actively promoted across the whole school. Assemblies are fully inclusive, with songs often signed and mainstream pupils enthusiastically join in. Mainstream pupils also take part in assemblies that highlight how to communicate effectively with deaf individuals, the impact of background noise and some of the challenges deaf pupils may face in the classroom. Sign graphics are displayed in the playground to encourage inclusive communication and staff are provided with resources to support the everyday use of sign.

The after-school and lunchtime BSL club continues to thrive; a group of Year 2 pupils are so engaged that they actively use their signing skills to communicate with younger deaf pupils during playtimes. Where possible, deaf Year 6 pupils have also taken a leading role in delivering Deaf Awareness sessions to their peers, including hosting question and answer opportunities. Pupils take part in wider school life, including the talent show and supporting the school choir by signing songs, further demonstrating the truly inclusive ethos of Christopher Pickering Primary.

Overall, this highlights the excellent work taking place across the school and Resource Base, with dedicated staff consistently making a meaningful difference to pupils’ lives – thank you!